NCJ Number
82532
Journal
Journal of Police Science and Administration Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1982) Pages: 112-120
Date Published
1982
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The history of women in policing is outlined, and research findings on the role of women in policing are summarized.
Abstract
The role of women in policing has changed very little in the last century, as have the corresponding attitudes of policemen and the general public. Although proper dress and manner are no longer the crucial factors in the orientation manuals for policewomen, female officers are still overly represented in supportive and clerical duties in police organizations. This has been due primarily to male officers' not having accepted females as their equals in contemporary policing. Female officers have demonstrated that they can manage preventable violent situations and communicate effectively with citizens. Further, policewomen often handle situations more effectively than males who rely on male muscle power and intimidation. The sex of the officer in itself does not determine whether violence will or will not occur between a citizen and the police. Despite the evidence that female officers are as competent as male officers in handling traditional police duties, male police officers perpetuate myths about female officers that makes it difficult for policewomen to obtain the vocational support of their male colleagues. It is important that police supervisory personnel clear away the myths about women's limitations and focus on their positive contributions as police officers. Forty-five references are listed.